Miss GEICO News 2018
- SBI Releases Updated NBC Sports Schedule and Changes for 2018
Key West, Fla (March 1, 2018) — The 2018 offshore racing season is upon us and Super Boat International (SBI) is preparing for, not only the season opener, but exciting television showcasing this past season. SBI announces an update to the NBC Sports programming schedule, for the 2017 Key West World Championships and announcement of the new SBI medical coordinator. The new schedule for the NBC Sports 3 1-hour shows of the 2017 Key West World Championships has just been updated. The first show will air Saturday March 31st at 2:30 pm EST. The second hour will be the next day, Sunday April 1st at 4:00 pm EST. The final hour of the 3-part series will air Saturday April 14th at 1:30 pm EST. If you miss any segment or didn’t hit your DVR, check back to Superboat.com after April 14th for your favorite episode. President, John Carbonell comments, “the NBC Sports programming of the Key West World Championships, presented by STIHL Inc. has been great over the previous years and we are excited to have our teams and avid followers watch this previous year’s shows. 
In addition, SBI is announcing Shawn Steinert as the new medical coordinator for the coming season. Steinert has been involved in offshore racing rescue for over 15 years and is retired from the special operations divisions of the Orlando Fire department after serving 27 years. Steinert was the commanding officer of Heavy Rescue 1, a highly specialized Technical Rescue unit that responded to all Technical and Dive Rescue incidents in Orlando and the Central Florida area. SBI, coming off a successful 2017 season, looks to a great season opener in Cocoa Beach, Florida this May 18th - 20th. Teams will converge on Port Canaveral for staging and then race off the gentle shore of Cocoa Beach on Sunday, May 20th for a great full day of racing. More About Super Boat International Super Boat International (SBI) is the leading North American professional powerboat organization founded by John Carbonell. Teams from all around the world compete May through October in the National Series Points races and conclude in November for the famous Key West World Championships. SBI produces weeklong race events including entertainment, kilo races and distance records throughout the United States, South America and the Bahamas. Races include the World’s fastest Vee-bottom and Catamaran style powerboats, reaching speeds in excess of 180 mph. In the first quarter of both 2018, Super Boat International Offshore Racing television coverage will be nationally broadcasted on NBC Sports showcasing the previous year’s World Championship Event. More About Southern Racing Fuels 
Southern Racing Fuels is a division of Port Consolidated Incorporated and is the largest race fuel distributor based in the state of Florida. Southern Racing Fuels supplies racetracks, dealers, speed shops, c-stores, race teams and motorcycle shops throughout Florida. Products include the complete line of quality Sunoco Race Fuels in addition to quality performance oils and lubricants, featuring the Valvoline brand.
- Race Village is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, with the first boat race starting at noon
FALL RIVER — The 47-foot gecko-green Miss Geico offshore powerboat slipped easily into the Taunton River Saturday before roaring off on its first practice run in the third Fall River Grand Prix, at Borden Light Marina, a warm-up for Sunday’s main event.
The race off the city’s shores is the fifth showdown this season for the Offshore Powerboat Association, but the first time the Miss Geico will have raced in what’s called the extreme class.
Gary Stray, co-owner and crew chief of the powerboat, is one of the most recognized in the offshore powerboat circuit. He said the Miss Geico can hit speeds above 200 mph, and its performance on the five-mile course should please the crowds.
“It’s going to be a very fast course for us,” Stray said. “We’ll be running pretty quick, so people are going to have a treat. This thing is a bit more like an airplane than a boat. It gets up on the air and we’re mainly running on air instead of water.”
The crew just traveled from Atlantic City, New Jersey, where there was an over-the-water air show in which Miss Geico raced the aerobatics team called the Sky Typers.
Miss Geico won.
Having arrived on Friday, Stray said he and his crew have had a good experience in Fall River.
“This is Geico’s first time here, and we’re really looking forward to it and very, very excited. We’ve been here a day and had a great reception from the people around, and we’re glad that we could come here and support the city,” Stray said.
Over by the popular Alex and Ani powerboat, with its gleaming platinum carbon-fiber hull, Jimmy Cazzani, of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, ushered 11-year-old Blaise Fanion, of Barrington, Rhode Island, into his 2017 Lamborghini Huracan. Blaise is a big fan of the high-end car model.
And Cazzani, the throttle man on the Alex and Ani, is a big fan of the 2006 powerboat he crews on — and the Fall River racing venue.
The Alex and Ani is “pretty much the epitome of the catamaran design,” said Cazzani. ”... You actually fly the boat, you don’t drive it — you spend more time in the air. This course has a lot of turns, under the bridge and by all these storied warships [at Battleship Cove]. It’s been really humbling. I’ve been begging everyone all week to get a photo of my boat with the USS Massachusetts in the background, that would be great, that would be humbling. There’s a lot of history here, and this town is in a renaissance.”
OPA Vice President Augie “The Godfather” Pensa, who hails from New Jersey, said his group is the largest offshore racing organization in the world, and yet like a close-knit family off the course.
“But when that green flag goes up, all that stuff’s out the window. Now it’s racing,” Pensa said.
Michael Lund, owner of Borden Light Marina and the founder and organizer of the Fall River Grand Prix, was fielding questions from staff and answering multiple calls Saturday morning before the powerboats, one-by-one, were hauled into the water.
Race registration ended at 6 p.m. Saturday, and Lund was anticipating 38 to 44 powerboats would participate.
Every year, the crowd grows. Last year, from drone photos, Lund counted 1,500 boaters watching the races from behind Borden Flats Light.
“The word’s out,” said Lund, with the race getting a lot of attention on social media.
“It’s absolutely blowing up. I think the word is getting out. I mean look at this, a Lamborghini and million-dollar race boats here in the ‘Fall Riviera,’ ” joked Lund.
Karen Peterson, a photographer from East Providence, said she’s attended the powerboat races the last two years, and last year made a book from her photographs and gave it to Lund.
“I was brought up around boatyards, so boats are in my blood,” said Peterson.
She likes the Fall River venue, too.
“This is a wonderful thing for Massachusetts and Rhode Island,” Peterson said. “And for Fall River and putting it on the map.”
On Sunday, Race Village is open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with the first race starting at noon and the last race launching at 3:45 p.m. Live music at the Tipsy Seagull starts at 4 p.m.
An awards ceremony is set for 7 p.m.
- Highest bidder and huge Miss Geico fan KAT, with her rather large piece of the damaged Miss Geico boat.
Kat, and her very kind father, Trif, were the lucky winners of our auction to benefit our charitable organization United We Race.
Thank you again for your bid!
Here are some of the lucky winners of the Miss Geico RC boats by Proboat
Congratulations to Bo, Cole and Christiana! We hope you have as much fun with your boats as we do with ours J
- Coming to NBC Sports in 2017, the Key West World Championships presented by STIHL
You gotta see it to believe it. 
Super Boat International hosted the world's biggest, fastest boats of offshore racing in Key West, Florida for the 2016 World Championship races back in November. NBC Sports will air the unbelievable compilation of all the world's best racers as captured in Key West for a truly inside look at powerboat racing. SBI boasts the best race teams, prettiest bikini girls, biggest party on Duval Street, and by far the most exhilarating moments of powerboat racing... SUPER BOAT RACING RETURNS TO NBC SPORTS, PRESENTED BY STIHL Below you will find the schedule for the three one-hour series, produced by JM Associates, airing on NBC Sports covering the 36th Annual Key West Super Boat World Championship. This highlight teaser is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and primed for the upcoming 3 part series. Buckle up... this is what you have been waiting for. Episode 1: 3/19/17 @ 6 PM ET Episode 2: 3/25/17 @ 5 PM ET Episode 3: 4/2/17 @ 5:30 PM ET CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE 35TH ANNUAL KEY WEST WORLDS SPECIAL AS SEEN ON NBC SPORTS
Miss GEICO News 2016
Miss GEICO News 2015
Miss GEICO News 2015
Miss Geico News 2014
- Miss GEICO Partners with Orange County Choppers[+]
MISS GEICO PARTNERS WITH ORANGE COUNTY CHOPPERSRiviera Beach, FL (May 6, 2014) – Seven time World Champion Miss GEICO teams up with the bad boys of Orange County Choppers forming a dream team of precision, performance, and wild colors. After traveling in similar motorsports circles for years, throttleman, Scotty Begovich, and Paul Teutul, Sr. of OCC finally met up for the first time at the Palm Beach International Boat Show. Scotty B was blown away by the stunning OCC’s bikes on display and Paul Sr. was as awed at the presence, build complexity, and power of the Miss GEICO boat. One thing led to another and both parties are thrilled to be participating in several upcoming offshore powerboat races and poker runs. “It’s a unique opportunity to put together the finest offshore race team and best bike builders in the business,” said Scotty Begovich.
OCC is entering into a new world with boats. “Boats and choppers go together great. We believe the lifestyle that the boat world offers is very similar to the Chopper lifestyle. We build a high end amazing product and want our brand to be recognized throughout all industries,” said Paul Sr.
The tentative schedule that Miss GEICO and OCC will collaborate together will be the 30th Annual Suncoast Superboat Grand Prix Festival in Sarasota, FL July 3-July 6, 2014. Two weeks later the parties hope to join forces in Lake Lanier, GA as they help to raise funds for Camp Sunshine and the Boys & Girls Clubs. Later on in the year Miss GEICO and OCC plan to be together at the National Offshore Championships in Clearwater, FL September 26-28, 2014 before ending the season at the World Offshore Racing Championships in Key West, November 3-9, 2014.
Motorcyclists, boaters, and racing enthusiasts will now have a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with OCC’s one off custom bikes as well tease themselves with the attainable production motorcycles. Meet and mingle with Paul Sr., his crew, and the entire Miss GEICO Offshore Race team. Autographs, t-shirts, Hero cards, posters, and a good time will be available. Bring your best boating or bike story!!
About Miss GEICO
Miss GEICO is an offshore racing boat sponsored by GEICO Insurance and owned by the country’s premier and fastest-performing powerboat racing team, AMF (America Moving Forward) Offshore racing. Miss GEICO is headquartered in Riviera Beach, FL.
With the duo of Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scott Begovich, Miss GEICO holds numerous world speed runs and records. Since the team’s inception in 2005, Miss GEICO has won seven World Championship Titles. In addition to competing in Offshore Racing, the Miss GEICO team participates year-round in boat shows, air shows, poker runs and charitable events assisting United We Race Inc., the team’s 501 (c) (3) charity, providing support to United States veterans and veterans’ programs.
About Orange County Choppers (OCC)
Orange County Choppers (OCC) is a world famous custom and production motorcycle manufacturer based in Newburgh, NY that was founded in 1999 by Paul Teutul, Sr. The company has been featured on American Chopper a reality TV show that debuted in September 2002 on the Discovery Channel which has contributed to the company's quick rise to fame. In 2007 Discovery Channel's sister channel (TLC) picked up the series in the United States and Canada. OCC bikes are customized and built around a theme or, increasingly, for specific corporate or celebrity customers.
Paul Sr. has appeared in numerous TV shows including the Celebrity Apprentice, movies, and has contributed his time and money to various charities.
Orange County Choppers14 Crossroads Court, Newburgh, NY 12550
www.Orangecountychoppers.com
(845)522-2222
About GEICO
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the second-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 12 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).
GEICO’s online service center helps policyholders take care of policy sales, policy changes, claims reporting and to print insurance ID cards.
GEICO also provides insurance quotes on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for boats, life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.
For more information, go to www.geico.com. - Thunder on Cocoa Beach[+]
- Miss GEICO partners with Health Products Xseed, INC. [+]Riviera Beach, FL (March 7, 2014) – Seven time World Champion Miss GEICO is pleased to announce its latest partnership with Xseed, Inc. Xseed, Inc. is a health and nutrition company focused on challenging and promoting healthier lifestyles and the entire Miss GEICO team will need to be physically prepared as they launch their bid for an eighth world title against a slew of high financed world challengers hungry for victory.
“The competition’s going to be even tougher this year and any time you line up boats with 3,300 horsepower engines on a liquid track that changes with every lap there’s bound to be surprises, says team driver Marc Granet. “Nutrition is going to play a significant role in our success this year and with Xseed products we know that our team members will have the stamina and ability to focus on the little details that sometimes can make the difference between a first and second place.”
The first race of the season is the Superboat Grand Prix April 11-13, 2014 in Port Charlotte, FL. The World Championships are held November 3-9, 2014 in Key West Florida and Xseed will be with Miss GEICO every step of the way.
John de Vries, Founder of Xseed and former IRL racer himself, knows how important nutrition is when you are behind the wheel and having to make split second decisions while battling heat and exhaustion. “Our health and nutrition products are going to have an immediate positive impact on the Miss GEICO racers in their cockpit and on everyone associated with the race team.”
Miss GEICO and Xseed will kick off their partnership at the Palm Beach International Boat Show March 20-23, 2014 where the Miss GEICO boat and Xseed tent and products will be on display. Come out and see the Miss GEICO race boat and learn more about the healthy and nutritional Xseed products.
About Miss GEICO
Miss GEICO is an offshore racing boat sponsored by GEICO Insurance and owned by the country’s premier and fastest-performing powerboat racing team, AMF (America Moving Forward) Offshore racing. Miss GEICO is headquartered in Riviera Beach, FL.
With the duo of Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scott Begovich, Miss GEICO holds numerous world speed runs and records. Since the team’s inception in 2005, Miss GEICO has won seven World Championship Titles. In addition to competing in Offshore Racing, the Miss GEICO team participates year-round in boat shows, air shows, poker runs and charitable events assisting United We Race Inc., the team’s 501 (c) (3) charity, providing support to United States veterans and veterans’ programs.
About Xseed, Inc.
Xseed, Inc. is more than just another company that sells health and nutrition products. Xseed is a movement, a movement that is ushering in a new era of healthy living. Xseed is characterized by innovative and progressive individuals that have a passion for helping others achieve not only their health and wellness goals but also their financial goals. From being able to spend quality time with the ones you love, to feeling good about who you are and what you do and how you look. Spreading the message of exceptional health and nutrition products is what Xseed is all about. - Miss GEICO Launches Defense of Superboat Unlimited World Title[+]
The Miss GEICO racing team will launch its bid for an eighth world title at the Super Boat Grand Prix April 11-13 in Charlotte Harbor, FL. Release includes entire 2014 team racing schedule.
The teams we race against have had a chance to analyze our comeback.
Charlotte Harbor, FL (PRWEB) March 31, 2014
A win in the 2014 season-opening offshore Super Boat Grand Prix would leave racing teams from as far away as Norway, Qatar, and Australia scrambling to catch up with Florida’s record-breaking Miss GEICO powerboat racing team.
One season into a major switch from turbine to piston-powered engines, the world’s fastest catamaran looks to defend its World Title against a slew of world challengers hungry for victory. The Miss GEICO racing team will launch its bid for an eighth world title at the Super Boat Grand Prix April 11-13 in Charlotte Harbor, FL.
“The competition’s going to be even tougher this year, now that the teams we race against have had a chance to analyze our comeback,” says team driver Marc Granet. “But any time you line up boats with 3,300 horsepower engines on a liquid track that changes with every lap, there’s bound to be surprises.”
Electrical issues caused a fire aboard the Miss GEICO Mystic during a July 2012 practice run in Sarasota and the boat was destroyed. No team members were injured thanks to the strict observation of stringent safety measures. The averted disaster ultimately prompted a new era in Miss GEICO racing – the conversion from turbine to piston power, which culminated with a spectacular comeback win at the 34th annual Key West World Championships. The 50-foot Miss GEICO Victory is carrying the team’s 2014 hopes in pursuit of an eighth world title.
The largest offshore racing team in the world donates 100% of race-prize earnings and merchandise sales to charitable foundations for United States veterans. This year the support crew will transport the fleet to 12 offshore races, 18 national boat shows, poker runs and numerous charity events.
“We consider it a privilege to race the world’s fastest catamaran on behalf of GEICO,” says Miss GEICO marketing and sponsorship director Gary Goodell, “and an honor to support members of the military and their families.”
The Miss GEICO Victory is the fourth iteration of the powerboat team’s racing catamaran. The boat constructed of carbon, Kevlar and S-glass has been designed to house twin Mercury 1650 RACE Sterndrive engines that produce nearly 3,300 horsepower and reach top speeds exceeding 200 mph. Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scotty Bergovich harness the Miss GEICO Victory’s power on the water, supported by Crew Chief Gary Stray and a championship team.
The Miss GEICO Platinum, a 42-foot catamaran, won the first two world championships in 2006 and 2007. Its final race was in 2008. The 44-foot Miss GEICO MTI won world championships in 2008 and 2009. The 50-foot Miss GEICO Mystic continued the tradition with world titles in 2010 and 2011. In addition to championship titles, these watercraft have set numerous world speed records and established record point-to-point performances
Miss GEICO 2014 Race and Appearance Schedule:
Charlotte Harbor, FL April 11-13 Charlotte Harbor SBI Grand Prix
Biloxi, MS April 24-27 “Smokin’ the Sound” Invitational
Cocoa Beach, FL May 16-18 5TH Annual Space Coast SBI Grand Prix
Lake of the Ozarks, MO June 5-8 Lake of Ozarks Invitational Race
Atlantic City, NJ June 20-22 Atlantic City OPA Powerboat Racing
Sarasota, FL July 4-6 30TH Annual Suncoast SBI Grand Prix
Orange Beach, AL Aug 21-22 10th Annual SBI Orange Beach Grand Prix
Pensacola Beach, FL AUG 23-24 1st Annual SBI Pensacola Grand Prix
Clearwater, FL Sept 26-28 6TH Annual Clearwater SBI Championship
Key West, FL Nov 2-9 34TH Annual Key West World Championship
About Miss GEICO Miss GEICO is an offshore racing boat sponsored by GEICO Insurance and owned by the country’s premier and fastest-performing powerboat racing team, AMF (America Moving Forward) Offshore racing. Miss GEICO is headquartered in Riviera Beach, FL.
With the duo of Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scott Begovich, Miss GEICO holds numerous world speed runs and records. Since the team’s inception in 2005, Miss GEICO has won seven World Championship Titles. In addition to competing in Offshore Racing, the Miss GEICO team participates year-round in boat shows, air shows, poker runs and charitable events assisting United We Race Inc., the team’s 501 (c) (3) charity, providing support to United States veterans and veterans’ programs. Miss GEICO earned six World Titles with turbine-powered engines before converting to piston powered engines and is the defending World Champion seeking its eighth world title in 2014 with piston-powered engines.
About GEICO GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 12 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).
GEICO’s online service center helps policyholders take care of policy sales, policy changes, claims reporting and to print insurance ID cards.
GEICO also provides insurance quotes on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for boats, life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.
For more information, go to http://www.geico.com. - Geico News [+]GEICO Communications Department
One GEICO Plaza Washington, D.C. 20076-0001
Miss GEICO and Mercury Racing team up for 2013 season
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 3, 2013 – Miss GEICO has made a full recovery after a fire last year slowed down the six-time world champion. This season, which opens with the Space Coast Super Boat Grand Prix on May 18 in Cocoa Beach, Fla., GEICO’s 50-foot catamaran will be powered for the first time by Mercury Racing’s 1650 RACE Sterndrive engines with over 3,300 horsepower.
“It’s going to be an amazing race season for us and for Mercury Racing,” said Vince Giampietro, senior marketing manager at GEICO. “We’ve got the most recognized boat in these race waters and now with Mercury and its world class reputation for engine excellence, we can’t wait to get started.”
Ted Ward, GEICO’s marketing vice president, said, “It’s great to be associated with Mercury Racing’s outstanding brand and we’re eager to continue a winning performance by the Miss GEICO team.” Mercury Racing President Eric Christiansen added, “Mercury Racing looks forward to working with the GEICO Racing Team. Their knowledge and professionalism will represent our propulsion packages well.”
Crews are now completing the overhaul of Miss GEICO’s cockpit, engine bays and hatches said Gary Goodell, partner and marketing director for the Miss GEICO Offshore Race Team. He says the team’s sights are set on winning a seventh world race title.
Crew chief Gary Stray pointed out, “The new Mercury Racing 1650 RACE Sterndrive engines are much larger than our previous Mercury engines and we have had to seriously cut into our transom in order to properly house the new engines. With this amount of power the boat will be ready for all challengers.”
Rick Mackie, senior marketing manager at Mercury Racing, summed up their team’s enthusiasm saying, “Let’s get ready and go for it.”
The Miss GEICO Race Team has a full race schedule with added air shows in New York, Atlantic City, and Milwaukee where Miss GEICO is featured performing against a GEICO Skytyper WWII warplane.
Visit missgeicoracing.com to read more about the team and to catch all the racing action and boat show information throughout the year.
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 11 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle). - Miss Geico- First To Install Mercury 1650 Units[+]MISS GEICO - FIRST TO INSTALL MERCURY 1650 UNITS
How will rivals fair in Superboat Unlimied against 3000 plus horsepower
Six time World Champion Miss Geico Racing – Team USA will be the the first team to run the 1650 RACE engines for the 2013 race season. Mercury Racing and Miss Geico Racing have come to a co-branding agreement which is founded on the team’s purchase of Mercury Racng 1650 engines and Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propellers. Miss Geico pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich are pumped up. “We experienced what the engines are capable of first hand after witnessing Bob Bull’s explosive speed in his 2011 World Championship run,” said Marc. “Not since Dave Scott’s Mercury powered Budweiser team has a piston boat challenged Miss Geico’s massive speed,” Marc said. We suspect Miss Geico and others racing that week were green with envy regarding the capabilities of this package.
Mercury have stated that the new 1650hp engines will only be available to established professional teams and the units are sold WITHOUT any warranty.
Miss Geico will obviously run in Unlimited Superboats so it will be interesting to see if any of its rivals install these powerful mixes.
Six time World Champion Miss Geico Racing – Team USA will be the the first team to run the 1650 RACE engines for the 2013 race season. Mercury Racing and Miss Geico Racing have come to a co-branding agreement which is founded on the team’s purchase of Mercury Racng 1650 engines and Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propellers.Mercury 1650 RACE engine
Miss Geico pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich are pumped up. “We experienced what the engines are capable of first hand after witnessing Bob Bull’s explosive speed in his 2011 World Championship run,” said Marc. “Not since Dave Scott’s Mercury powered Budweiser team has a piston boat challenged Miss Geico’s massive speed,” Marc said. We suspect Miss Geico and others racing that week were green with envy regarding the capabilities of this package.
Mercury have stated that the new 1650hp engines will only be available to established professional teams and the units are sold WITHOUT any warranty.
Miss Geico will obviously run in Unlimited Superboats so it will be interesting to see if any of its rivals install these powerful mixes. - Rigging, Renovation - And More - Heating Up for Miss Geico[+]
The first set of production 1650 Race engines from Mercury Racing is set to arrive tomorrow at the AMF Offshore Rigging shop for installation in the 44-foot long Miss GEICO offshore racing catamaran. To that end, Gary Stray and the of crew at the West Palm Beach, Fla., outfit have completely gutted and rebuilt the engine bays of the 44-footer, which began its life as a racer designed and built by the Victory Team and replaced the destroyed the turbine-powered Miss GEICO Mystic cat (Read the story) last year.
“We’re quite excited about the Mercury engine program,” said Stray, who originally rigged the 44-footer for the Dubai-based Victory group in 1996. “We have done a lot of high-speed stuff with the turbines, of course, and I did quite a bit of high-speed stuff when I was with Randy (Scism) at MTI. We’re quite looking forward to it.
Engine bay prepartions for the Mercury Racing 1650s were extensive.
“Getting ready for the installation has take quite a bit of work,” Stray continued. “We actually had to lower the engine placement bays and the fuel cell. We also completely changed the safety cell in the boat. It has a new windshield and a new roll cage, and we reinforced the entire structure with carbon fiber. Basically, we gutted the entire boat.”
Rather than using conventional tailpipes and water-jacketed exhaust for the quad overhead cam turbocharged piston engines, Stray and his team are outfitting the cat with ceramic-wrapped dry exhaust. The exhaust system is, for all intents and purposes, the same type of system they used on the turbine-powered Miss GEICO cat. Manufacturing of the system is in progress, according to Stray.
“We’re trying to eliminate any water restriction in the tailpipes,” he explained. “It’s exactly the same thing we did for our turbines. The ceramic material is similar to the tiles you’d find on the bottom of the space shuttle. We did extensive testing with it in our turbine boat. Inside the tailpipe, we’d see EGT (exhaust gas temperature) of 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas the outside of the pipe would be 114 degrees. I could put my hand on it. Keeping up the EGT also will help with the turbochargers, because exhaust gas moves faster when its temperature is higher.”
Small Changes, Big Implications
New dash components are just part of the bigger picture.
Underneath the renovated canopy and capsule, Miss GEICO pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich will be looking at an all-new carbon-fiber dashboard. But the change to a new dash is as much about the future Miss GEICO, an all-carbon 42-footer created by Gary Stray Yacht Design that most likely will debut in 2015, as it is about improving the team’s present ride.
According to Stray, the scale model and the drawings for his 42-foot catamaran, which will be built in house, are complete. At present he is working with carbon-fiber lamination and materials specialists in Germany, including representatives from Porsche. Stray said the new race boat will be constructed using “new processes, resins and carbons that are not available in this country,” though he declined to provide additional detail.
Throttleman Begovich will have joystick control in Miss GEICO this season.
“Sure, we made this very neat, new dashboard for the current Miss GEICO,” he explained. “But we created it using all these small parts that are made with the new technology and materials we will be using for the new boat, and we’re bonding it all together. It’s like a ‘test,’ except that none of the parts are critical for the boat to run. But we’ll still get to see how those parts react to different stresses.” - Mercury Racing[+]In conjunction with the unveiling, we’re proud to announce Six time World Champion Miss Geico Racing – Team USA will be the the first team to run the 1650 RACE engines for the 2013 race season. Mercury Racing and Miss Geico Racing have come to a co-branding agreement which is founded on the team’s purchase of Mercury Racng 1650 engines and Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propellers.
Miss Geico pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich are pumped. “We experienced what the engines are capable of first hand after witnessing Bob Bull’s explosive speed in his 2011 World Championship run,” said Marc. “Not since Dave Scott’s Mercury powered Budweiser team has a piston boat challenged Miss Geico’s massive speed,” Marc said. We suspect Miss Geico and others racing that week were green with envy regarding the capabilities of this package.
An unfortunate fire and total loss of the turbine Miss Geico last year forced the team to scramble for a back-up boat to finish the season. They chose Mercury 1075 SCis for power. They knew they wouldn’t be competitive but they were confident they would finish each race and finish the season with dignity. After numerous phone conversations between myself and Marc Granet, the team decided to stick with piston power and asked if we could help.
Being a marketing guy – I’m all about brand exposure. I highly respect Geico’s creative marketing. Miss Geico has a following that is analogous to what the Miss Budweiser Unlimited Hydroplane had in it’s day. The Geico message is about safety and protection – very positive and very family orientated.
In our discussions, Marc and I have come to the conclusion our interests, goals and objectives are very similar. Geico and Mercury Racing working together on and off the race course is beneficial for the sport, for the industry and for all of the people both companies touch throughout the world.
Congratulations Erik and my associates in another successful Miami product launch. Congratulations Team Geico on your new power! We suspect it will be your competitors who are now Green with Envy. - Miss GEICO Earns First Piston-Powered Victory[+]Though it took first place as the only boat in its class at the Super Boat International offshore race in Cocoa Beach, Fla., earlier this season, the 44-foot Miss GEICO catamaran earned its first "competitive" checkered flag with piston power at last weekend's Offshore Powerboat Association race in Port Huron, Mich./Ontario, Canada. Competing in OPA's Extreme Class—bracketed to a top speed of 135 mph—Miss GEICO, which is powered by Mercury Racing 1650 Race Engines, bested Broadco, Phoenix Parts and Cat Can Do to the take the top slot.
On the way to its first victory with piston power, Miss GEICO battled hard with several competitors. Photo by Chris Kosin, courtesy Miss GEICO Offshore Racing.
"Bracket racing is really challenging because the boat wants to go a lot faster," said Marc Granet, the driver of Miss GEICO who piloted the cat with longtime throttleman Scott Begovich. "Just when you begin to feel like you're going really fast, you have to slow down.
"There was some really tight action yesterday," he continued. "Cat Can Do and us were deck to deck for entire race, which I think was 13 laps. The water conditions definitely favored the light, fast boats."
The Port Huron event was the first race of the year in which Miss GEICO did not encounter some kind of mechanical issue. Mechanical gremlins also dogged the Miss GEICO team last year when the team ran the boat with Mercury Racing 1075 SCi engines after its turbine-powered 50-foot Mystic burned to the waterline after a practice session.
"Fortunately, none of the problems we've had this season have been with the 1650s—they've been rock solid in every race," said Granet. "They make so much power and torque. They're just fantastic." - Miss GEICO Crowned World Champion in Key West[+]
Miss GEICO News 2016
Miss GEICO News 2016
Miss GEICO News 2017
- Highest bidder and huge Miss Geico fan KAT, with her rather large piece of the damaged Miss Geico boat.
Kat, and her very kind father, Trif, were the lucky winners of our auction to benefit our charitable organization United We Race.
Thank you again for your bid!
Here are some of the lucky winners of the Miss Geico RC boats by Proboat
Congratulations to Bo, Cole and Christiana! We hope you have as much fun with your boats as we do with ours J
- Coming to NBC Sports in 2017, the Key West World Championships presented by STIHL
You gotta see it to believe it. Super Boat International hosted the world's biggest, fastest boats of offshore racing in Key West, Florida for the 2016 World Championship races back in November. NBC Sports will air the unbelievable compilation of all the world's best racers as captured in Key West for a truly inside look at powerboat racing. SBI boasts the best race teams, prettiest bikini girls, biggest party on Duval Street, and by far the most exhilarating moments of powerboat racing... SUPER BOAT RACING RETURNS TO NBC SPORTS, PRESENTED BY STIHL Below you will find the schedule for the three one-hour series, produced by JM Associates, airing on NBC Sports covering the 36th Annual Key West Super Boat World Championship. This highlight teaser is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and primed for the upcoming 3 part series. Buckle up... this is what you have been waiting for. Episode 1: 3/19/17 @ 6 PM ET Episode 2: 3/25/17 @ 5 PM ET Episode 3: 4/2/17 @ 5:30 PM ET CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE 35TH ANNUAL KEY WEST WORLDS SPECIAL AS SEEN ON NBC SPORTS
Miss GEICO News 2016
Miss GEICO News 2015
Miss GEICO News 2015
Miss Geico News 2014
- Miss GEICO Partners with Orange County Choppers[+]
MISS GEICO PARTNERS WITH ORANGE COUNTY CHOPPERSRiviera Beach, FL (May 6, 2014) – Seven time World Champion Miss GEICO teams up with the bad boys of Orange County Choppers forming a dream team of precision, performance, and wild colors. After traveling in similar motorsports circles for years, throttleman, Scotty Begovich, and Paul Teutul, Sr. of OCC finally met up for the first time at the Palm Beach International Boat Show. Scotty B was blown away by the stunning OCC’s bikes on display and Paul Sr. was as awed at the presence, build complexity, and power of the Miss GEICO boat. One thing led to another and both parties are thrilled to be participating in several upcoming offshore powerboat races and poker runs. “It’s a unique opportunity to put together the finest offshore race team and best bike builders in the business,” said Scotty Begovich.
OCC is entering into a new world with boats. “Boats and choppers go together great. We believe the lifestyle that the boat world offers is very similar to the Chopper lifestyle. We build a high end amazing product and want our brand to be recognized throughout all industries,” said Paul Sr.
The tentative schedule that Miss GEICO and OCC will collaborate together will be the 30th Annual Suncoast Superboat Grand Prix Festival in Sarasota, FL July 3-July 6, 2014. Two weeks later the parties hope to join forces in Lake Lanier, GA as they help to raise funds for Camp Sunshine and the Boys & Girls Clubs. Later on in the year Miss GEICO and OCC plan to be together at the National Offshore Championships in Clearwater, FL September 26-28, 2014 before ending the season at the World Offshore Racing Championships in Key West, November 3-9, 2014.
Motorcyclists, boaters, and racing enthusiasts will now have a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with OCC’s one off custom bikes as well tease themselves with the attainable production motorcycles. Meet and mingle with Paul Sr., his crew, and the entire Miss GEICO Offshore Race team. Autographs, t-shirts, Hero cards, posters, and a good time will be available. Bring your best boating or bike story!!
About Miss GEICO
Miss GEICO is an offshore racing boat sponsored by GEICO Insurance and owned by the country’s premier and fastest-performing powerboat racing team, AMF (America Moving Forward) Offshore racing. Miss GEICO is headquartered in Riviera Beach, FL.
With the duo of Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scott Begovich, Miss GEICO holds numerous world speed runs and records. Since the team’s inception in 2005, Miss GEICO has won seven World Championship Titles. In addition to competing in Offshore Racing, the Miss GEICO team participates year-round in boat shows, air shows, poker runs and charitable events assisting United We Race Inc., the team’s 501 (c) (3) charity, providing support to United States veterans and veterans’ programs.
About Orange County Choppers (OCC)
Orange County Choppers (OCC) is a world famous custom and production motorcycle manufacturer based in Newburgh, NY that was founded in 1999 by Paul Teutul, Sr. The company has been featured on American Chopper a reality TV show that debuted in September 2002 on the Discovery Channel which has contributed to the company's quick rise to fame. In 2007 Discovery Channel's sister channel (TLC) picked up the series in the United States and Canada. OCC bikes are customized and built around a theme or, increasingly, for specific corporate or celebrity customers.
Paul Sr. has appeared in numerous TV shows including the Celebrity Apprentice, movies, and has contributed his time and money to various charities.
Orange County Choppers14 Crossroads Court, Newburgh, NY 12550
www.Orangecountychoppers.com
(845)522-2222
About GEICO
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the second-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 12 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).
GEICO’s online service center helps policyholders take care of policy sales, policy changes, claims reporting and to print insurance ID cards.
GEICO also provides insurance quotes on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for boats, life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.
For more information, go to www.geico.com. - Thunder on Cocoa Beach[+]
- Miss GEICO partners with Health Products Xseed, INC. [+]Riviera Beach, FL (March 7, 2014) – Seven time World Champion Miss GEICO is pleased to announce its latest partnership with Xseed, Inc. Xseed, Inc. is a health and nutrition company focused on challenging and promoting healthier lifestyles and the entire Miss GEICO team will need to be physically prepared as they launch their bid for an eighth world title against a slew of high financed world challengers hungry for victory.
“The competition’s going to be even tougher this year and any time you line up boats with 3,300 horsepower engines on a liquid track that changes with every lap there’s bound to be surprises, says team driver Marc Granet. “Nutrition is going to play a significant role in our success this year and with Xseed products we know that our team members will have the stamina and ability to focus on the little details that sometimes can make the difference between a first and second place.”
The first race of the season is the Superboat Grand Prix April 11-13, 2014 in Port Charlotte, FL. The World Championships are held November 3-9, 2014 in Key West Florida and Xseed will be with Miss GEICO every step of the way.
John de Vries, Founder of Xseed and former IRL racer himself, knows how important nutrition is when you are behind the wheel and having to make split second decisions while battling heat and exhaustion. “Our health and nutrition products are going to have an immediate positive impact on the Miss GEICO racers in their cockpit and on everyone associated with the race team.”
Miss GEICO and Xseed will kick off their partnership at the Palm Beach International Boat Show March 20-23, 2014 where the Miss GEICO boat and Xseed tent and products will be on display. Come out and see the Miss GEICO race boat and learn more about the healthy and nutritional Xseed products.
About Miss GEICO
Miss GEICO is an offshore racing boat sponsored by GEICO Insurance and owned by the country’s premier and fastest-performing powerboat racing team, AMF (America Moving Forward) Offshore racing. Miss GEICO is headquartered in Riviera Beach, FL.
With the duo of Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scott Begovich, Miss GEICO holds numerous world speed runs and records. Since the team’s inception in 2005, Miss GEICO has won seven World Championship Titles. In addition to competing in Offshore Racing, the Miss GEICO team participates year-round in boat shows, air shows, poker runs and charitable events assisting United We Race Inc., the team’s 501 (c) (3) charity, providing support to United States veterans and veterans’ programs.
About Xseed, Inc.
Xseed, Inc. is more than just another company that sells health and nutrition products. Xseed is a movement, a movement that is ushering in a new era of healthy living. Xseed is characterized by innovative and progressive individuals that have a passion for helping others achieve not only their health and wellness goals but also their financial goals. From being able to spend quality time with the ones you love, to feeling good about who you are and what you do and how you look. Spreading the message of exceptional health and nutrition products is what Xseed is all about. - Miss GEICO Launches Defense of Superboat Unlimited World Title[+]
The Miss GEICO racing team will launch its bid for an eighth world title at the Super Boat Grand Prix April 11-13 in Charlotte Harbor, FL. Release includes entire 2014 team racing schedule.
The teams we race against have had a chance to analyze our comeback.
Charlotte Harbor, FL (PRWEB) March 31, 2014
A win in the 2014 season-opening offshore Super Boat Grand Prix would leave racing teams from as far away as Norway, Qatar, and Australia scrambling to catch up with Florida’s record-breaking Miss GEICO powerboat racing team.
One season into a major switch from turbine to piston-powered engines, the world’s fastest catamaran looks to defend its World Title against a slew of world challengers hungry for victory. The Miss GEICO racing team will launch its bid for an eighth world title at the Super Boat Grand Prix April 11-13 in Charlotte Harbor, FL.
“The competition’s going to be even tougher this year, now that the teams we race against have had a chance to analyze our comeback,” says team driver Marc Granet. “But any time you line up boats with 3,300 horsepower engines on a liquid track that changes with every lap, there’s bound to be surprises.”
Electrical issues caused a fire aboard the Miss GEICO Mystic during a July 2012 practice run in Sarasota and the boat was destroyed. No team members were injured thanks to the strict observation of stringent safety measures. The averted disaster ultimately prompted a new era in Miss GEICO racing – the conversion from turbine to piston power, which culminated with a spectacular comeback win at the 34th annual Key West World Championships. The 50-foot Miss GEICO Victory is carrying the team’s 2014 hopes in pursuit of an eighth world title.
The largest offshore racing team in the world donates 100% of race-prize earnings and merchandise sales to charitable foundations for United States veterans. This year the support crew will transport the fleet to 12 offshore races, 18 national boat shows, poker runs and numerous charity events.
“We consider it a privilege to race the world’s fastest catamaran on behalf of GEICO,” says Miss GEICO marketing and sponsorship director Gary Goodell, “and an honor to support members of the military and their families.”
The Miss GEICO Victory is the fourth iteration of the powerboat team’s racing catamaran. The boat constructed of carbon, Kevlar and S-glass has been designed to house twin Mercury 1650 RACE Sterndrive engines that produce nearly 3,300 horsepower and reach top speeds exceeding 200 mph. Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scotty Bergovich harness the Miss GEICO Victory’s power on the water, supported by Crew Chief Gary Stray and a championship team.
The Miss GEICO Platinum, a 42-foot catamaran, won the first two world championships in 2006 and 2007. Its final race was in 2008. The 44-foot Miss GEICO MTI won world championships in 2008 and 2009. The 50-foot Miss GEICO Mystic continued the tradition with world titles in 2010 and 2011. In addition to championship titles, these watercraft have set numerous world speed records and established record point-to-point performances
Miss GEICO 2014 Race and Appearance Schedule:
Charlotte Harbor, FL April 11-13 Charlotte Harbor SBI Grand Prix
Biloxi, MS April 24-27 “Smokin’ the Sound” Invitational
Cocoa Beach, FL May 16-18 5TH Annual Space Coast SBI Grand Prix
Lake of the Ozarks, MO June 5-8 Lake of Ozarks Invitational Race
Atlantic City, NJ June 20-22 Atlantic City OPA Powerboat Racing
Sarasota, FL July 4-6 30TH Annual Suncoast SBI Grand Prix
Orange Beach, AL Aug 21-22 10th Annual SBI Orange Beach Grand Prix
Pensacola Beach, FL AUG 23-24 1st Annual SBI Pensacola Grand Prix
Clearwater, FL Sept 26-28 6TH Annual Clearwater SBI Championship
Key West, FL Nov 2-9 34TH Annual Key West World Championship
About Miss GEICO Miss GEICO is an offshore racing boat sponsored by GEICO Insurance and owned by the country’s premier and fastest-performing powerboat racing team, AMF (America Moving Forward) Offshore racing. Miss GEICO is headquartered in Riviera Beach, FL.
With the duo of Driver Marc Granet and Throttleman Scott Begovich, Miss GEICO holds numerous world speed runs and records. Since the team’s inception in 2005, Miss GEICO has won seven World Championship Titles. In addition to competing in Offshore Racing, the Miss GEICO team participates year-round in boat shows, air shows, poker runs and charitable events assisting United We Race Inc., the team’s 501 (c) (3) charity, providing support to United States veterans and veterans’ programs. Miss GEICO earned six World Titles with turbine-powered engines before converting to piston powered engines and is the defending World Champion seeking its eighth world title in 2014 with piston-powered engines.
About GEICO GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 12 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).
GEICO’s online service center helps policyholders take care of policy sales, policy changes, claims reporting and to print insurance ID cards.
GEICO also provides insurance quotes on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for boats, life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.
For more information, go to http://www.geico.com. - Geico News [+]GEICO Communications Department
One GEICO Plaza Washington, D.C. 20076-0001
Miss GEICO and Mercury Racing team up for 2013 season
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 3, 2013 – Miss GEICO has made a full recovery after a fire last year slowed down the six-time world champion. This season, which opens with the Space Coast Super Boat Grand Prix on May 18 in Cocoa Beach, Fla., GEICO’s 50-foot catamaran will be powered for the first time by Mercury Racing’s 1650 RACE Sterndrive engines with over 3,300 horsepower.
“It’s going to be an amazing race season for us and for Mercury Racing,” said Vince Giampietro, senior marketing manager at GEICO. “We’ve got the most recognized boat in these race waters and now with Mercury and its world class reputation for engine excellence, we can’t wait to get started.”
Ted Ward, GEICO’s marketing vice president, said, “It’s great to be associated with Mercury Racing’s outstanding brand and we’re eager to continue a winning performance by the Miss GEICO team.” Mercury Racing President Eric Christiansen added, “Mercury Racing looks forward to working with the GEICO Racing Team. Their knowledge and professionalism will represent our propulsion packages well.”
Crews are now completing the overhaul of Miss GEICO’s cockpit, engine bays and hatches said Gary Goodell, partner and marketing director for the Miss GEICO Offshore Race Team. He says the team’s sights are set on winning a seventh world race title.
Crew chief Gary Stray pointed out, “The new Mercury Racing 1650 RACE Sterndrive engines are much larger than our previous Mercury engines and we have had to seriously cut into our transom in order to properly house the new engines. With this amount of power the boat will be ready for all challengers.”
Rick Mackie, senior marketing manager at Mercury Racing, summed up their team’s enthusiasm saying, “Let’s get ready and go for it.”
The Miss GEICO Race Team has a full race schedule with added air shows in New York, Atlantic City, and Milwaukee where Miss GEICO is featured performing against a GEICO Skytyper WWII warplane.
Visit missgeicoracing.com to read more about the team and to catch all the racing action and boat show information throughout the year.
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 11 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle). - Miss Geico- First To Install Mercury 1650 Units[+]MISS GEICO - FIRST TO INSTALL MERCURY 1650 UNITS
How will rivals fair in Superboat Unlimied against 3000 plus horsepower
Six time World Champion Miss Geico Racing – Team USA will be the the first team to run the 1650 RACE engines for the 2013 race season. Mercury Racing and Miss Geico Racing have come to a co-branding agreement which is founded on the team’s purchase of Mercury Racng 1650 engines and Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propellers. Miss Geico pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich are pumped up. “We experienced what the engines are capable of first hand after witnessing Bob Bull’s explosive speed in his 2011 World Championship run,” said Marc. “Not since Dave Scott’s Mercury powered Budweiser team has a piston boat challenged Miss Geico’s massive speed,” Marc said. We suspect Miss Geico and others racing that week were green with envy regarding the capabilities of this package.
Mercury have stated that the new 1650hp engines will only be available to established professional teams and the units are sold WITHOUT any warranty.
Miss Geico will obviously run in Unlimited Superboats so it will be interesting to see if any of its rivals install these powerful mixes.
Six time World Champion Miss Geico Racing – Team USA will be the the first team to run the 1650 RACE engines for the 2013 race season. Mercury Racing and Miss Geico Racing have come to a co-branding agreement which is founded on the team’s purchase of Mercury Racng 1650 engines and Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propellers.Mercury 1650 RACE engine
Miss Geico pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich are pumped up. “We experienced what the engines are capable of first hand after witnessing Bob Bull’s explosive speed in his 2011 World Championship run,” said Marc. “Not since Dave Scott’s Mercury powered Budweiser team has a piston boat challenged Miss Geico’s massive speed,” Marc said. We suspect Miss Geico and others racing that week were green with envy regarding the capabilities of this package.
Mercury have stated that the new 1650hp engines will only be available to established professional teams and the units are sold WITHOUT any warranty.
Miss Geico will obviously run in Unlimited Superboats so it will be interesting to see if any of its rivals install these powerful mixes. - Rigging, Renovation - And More - Heating Up for Miss Geico[+]
The first set of production 1650 Race engines from Mercury Racing is set to arrive tomorrow at the AMF Offshore Rigging shop for installation in the 44-foot long Miss GEICO offshore racing catamaran. To that end, Gary Stray and the of crew at the West Palm Beach, Fla., outfit have completely gutted and rebuilt the engine bays of the 44-footer, which began its life as a racer designed and built by the Victory Team and replaced the destroyed the turbine-powered Miss GEICO Mystic cat (Read the story) last year.
“We’re quite excited about the Mercury engine program,” said Stray, who originally rigged the 44-footer for the Dubai-based Victory group in 1996. “We have done a lot of high-speed stuff with the turbines, of course, and I did quite a bit of high-speed stuff when I was with Randy (Scism) at MTI. We’re quite looking forward to it.
Engine bay prepartions for the Mercury Racing 1650s were extensive.
“Getting ready for the installation has take quite a bit of work,” Stray continued. “We actually had to lower the engine placement bays and the fuel cell. We also completely changed the safety cell in the boat. It has a new windshield and a new roll cage, and we reinforced the entire structure with carbon fiber. Basically, we gutted the entire boat.”
Rather than using conventional tailpipes and water-jacketed exhaust for the quad overhead cam turbocharged piston engines, Stray and his team are outfitting the cat with ceramic-wrapped dry exhaust. The exhaust system is, for all intents and purposes, the same type of system they used on the turbine-powered Miss GEICO cat. Manufacturing of the system is in progress, according to Stray.
“We’re trying to eliminate any water restriction in the tailpipes,” he explained. “It’s exactly the same thing we did for our turbines. The ceramic material is similar to the tiles you’d find on the bottom of the space shuttle. We did extensive testing with it in our turbine boat. Inside the tailpipe, we’d see EGT (exhaust gas temperature) of 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit, whereas the outside of the pipe would be 114 degrees. I could put my hand on it. Keeping up the EGT also will help with the turbochargers, because exhaust gas moves faster when its temperature is higher.”
Small Changes, Big Implications
New dash components are just part of the bigger picture.
Underneath the renovated canopy and capsule, Miss GEICO pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich will be looking at an all-new carbon-fiber dashboard. But the change to a new dash is as much about the future Miss GEICO, an all-carbon 42-footer created by Gary Stray Yacht Design that most likely will debut in 2015, as it is about improving the team’s present ride.
According to Stray, the scale model and the drawings for his 42-foot catamaran, which will be built in house, are complete. At present he is working with carbon-fiber lamination and materials specialists in Germany, including representatives from Porsche. Stray said the new race boat will be constructed using “new processes, resins and carbons that are not available in this country,” though he declined to provide additional detail.
Throttleman Begovich will have joystick control in Miss GEICO this season.
“Sure, we made this very neat, new dashboard for the current Miss GEICO,” he explained. “But we created it using all these small parts that are made with the new technology and materials we will be using for the new boat, and we’re bonding it all together. It’s like a ‘test,’ except that none of the parts are critical for the boat to run. But we’ll still get to see how those parts react to different stresses.” - Mercury Racing[+]In conjunction with the unveiling, we’re proud to announce Six time World Champion Miss Geico Racing – Team USA will be the the first team to run the 1650 RACE engines for the 2013 race season. Mercury Racing and Miss Geico Racing have come to a co-branding agreement which is founded on the team’s purchase of Mercury Racng 1650 engines and Mercury Racing CNC Cleaver Propellers.
Miss Geico pilots Marc Granet and Scott Begovich are pumped. “We experienced what the engines are capable of first hand after witnessing Bob Bull’s explosive speed in his 2011 World Championship run,” said Marc. “Not since Dave Scott’s Mercury powered Budweiser team has a piston boat challenged Miss Geico’s massive speed,” Marc said. We suspect Miss Geico and others racing that week were green with envy regarding the capabilities of this package.
An unfortunate fire and total loss of the turbine Miss Geico last year forced the team to scramble for a back-up boat to finish the season. They chose Mercury 1075 SCis for power. They knew they wouldn’t be competitive but they were confident they would finish each race and finish the season with dignity. After numerous phone conversations between myself and Marc Granet, the team decided to stick with piston power and asked if we could help.
Being a marketing guy – I’m all about brand exposure. I highly respect Geico’s creative marketing. Miss Geico has a following that is analogous to what the Miss Budweiser Unlimited Hydroplane had in it’s day. The Geico message is about safety and protection – very positive and very family orientated.
In our discussions, Marc and I have come to the conclusion our interests, goals and objectives are very similar. Geico and Mercury Racing working together on and off the race course is beneficial for the sport, for the industry and for all of the people both companies touch throughout the world.
Congratulations Erik and my associates in another successful Miami product launch. Congratulations Team Geico on your new power! We suspect it will be your competitors who are now Green with Envy. - Miss GEICO Earns First Piston-Powered Victory[+]Though it took first place as the only boat in its class at the Super Boat International offshore race in Cocoa Beach, Fla., earlier this season, the 44-foot Miss GEICO catamaran earned its first "competitive" checkered flag with piston power at last weekend's Offshore Powerboat Association race in Port Huron, Mich./Ontario, Canada. Competing in OPA's Extreme Class—bracketed to a top speed of 135 mph—Miss GEICO, which is powered by Mercury Racing 1650 Race Engines, bested Broadco, Phoenix Parts and Cat Can Do to the take the top slot.
On the way to its first victory with piston power, Miss GEICO battled hard with several competitors. Photo by Chris Kosin, courtesy Miss GEICO Offshore Racing.
"Bracket racing is really challenging because the boat wants to go a lot faster," said Marc Granet, the driver of Miss GEICO who piloted the cat with longtime throttleman Scott Begovich. "Just when you begin to feel like you're going really fast, you have to slow down.
"There was some really tight action yesterday," he continued. "Cat Can Do and us were deck to deck for entire race, which I think was 13 laps. The water conditions definitely favored the light, fast boats."
The Port Huron event was the first race of the year in which Miss GEICO did not encounter some kind of mechanical issue. Mechanical gremlins also dogged the Miss GEICO team last year when the team ran the boat with Mercury Racing 1075 SCi engines after its turbine-powered 50-foot Mystic burned to the waterline after a practice session.
"Fortunately, none of the problems we've had this season have been with the 1650s—they've been rock solid in every race," said Granet. "They make so much power and torque. They're just fantastic." - Miss GEICO Crowned World Champion in Key West[+]
